Hull City Council and Marks & Spencer are in ongoing talks over alternate locations for its Whitefriargate store.

Marks & Spencer announced on Tuesday morning it had entered into a consultation over plans to close its city centre branch. The store, which has been open for at least 118 years, is one of 17 stores nationwide which faces the axe.

However, in a twist, a statement from the council has revealed talks over the future of M&S in Hull have actually been going on for the last 18 months, and are now focused on finding a possible new home for the supermarket.

Councillor Daren Hale, portfolio holder for regeneration and economic investment, said: “We have been in discussion at a senior level with Marks & Spencer about the future of their operations in Hull for over 18 months and these active discussions are continuing.

Councillor Daren Hale said talks with M&S had been ongoing for 18 months

"The layout and construction of its Whitefriargate store does not lend itself to conversion to a more modern retail format and these discussions are now focusing on possible alternative locations.

“Hull, like most cities, is being affected by these major changes in retail behaviour. We are tackling these issues head on.

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“We have built a good relationship with the manager and team, partnering closely with them as part of the Healthy High Streets initiative as well as their participation in HullBID events.

“There is a real sense of nostalgia around Whitefriargate and the M&S building particularly which has been the anchor tenant for decades and the loss will certainly change the dynamics of the street.”

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Hull City Council also spoke of its disappointment at the announcement from M&S, and said it was "a reflection of national issues faced by high streets."

Cllr Hale said: “Hull City Council is extremely disappointed at today’s announcement by Marks & Spencer that it is consulting on the closure of its Whitefriargate store and our thoughts are with their employees in Hull at this very difficult time.

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"This is one of 17 stores affected across the country and, sadly, this is a reflection of the national issues faced by our high streets as retail habits change and increasing numbers of people shop online.

"Last month, it was announced that a deal had been agreed that ensured House of Fraser would remain in Hull, despite the store initially announcing that it would close.

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